Our Mission
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) is one of the oldest and most respected agencies in the Federal government. Over the years there have been many changes in the Department's programs and activities, but our primary mission remains the same -- to serve and protect American workers and prepare them for the demands of tomorrow's work place. In serving and protecting workers, the Department of Labor ensures workers' rights, inspects work sites, shields workers from employment discrimination, administers unemployment insurance programs and enforces workers' compensation and wage standards. The Department also sponsors training and retraining programs to help workers adapt to the demands for new skills in the ever-changing work force.

DOL's Summer Employment Program
Working at the Department of Labor is a great way to spend the summer! You will have a chance to gain insight about how a Federal government agency operates, and you will also acquire valuable experience that will enhance your education and provide you with a professional working perspective of your discipline.

Most positions are located at our headquarters' office near Capitol Hill -- just a few blocks from the U.S. Capitol Building and the Supreme Court! Throughout the summer you will also have the option of attending enrichment activities that will help you:

• manage your time and money effectively
• learn about your personality type and preferences as determined by the Myers-Briggs Type Inventory
• learn how to improve your communication skills
• learn about careers in the Department of Labor, and
• learn about the services provided by the Department's Career Assistance Center.

Additional activities include an end-of-summer event as well as brown bag luncheons and shadowing and mentoring opportunities with senior Departmental officials. You may even have the opportunity to meet the Secretary of Labor!